Archive for August, 2013

I describe a leader in balance as a person who nurtures the heart and soul of the organization and its individuals and makes choices with a moral and ethical heart, who is able to lead a long-living organization that has the ability to build community and a persona for itself.

When I think of a leader in balance, a few characteristics come to mind: someone who is both a teacher and a student; who thinks critically and reflectively; is sensitive to the environment around them; and seeks to fulfill the brand promise of the organization.

An astute leader builds a brand, and part of that brand is the way he or she thinks. This encompasses more than an approach or style: it’s a much more robust concept. Leaders in balance think about how they can intentionally add value to their organization, sometimes by taking control and sometimes by building consensus. In any event, the way a leader thinks sets the tone and direction for their organization.